A Look At Vertical And Horizontal Profiled Ice Fishing Lures
Most experienced hard-water anglers carry a good assortment of lures when ice fishing. Having plenty of baits on hand provides more options for experimenting with different presentations to learn what fish like best. What follows is a look at the benefits of having both horizontal and vertical profiled lures in your collection, and some of the best ice fishing lures from each category.
1. Horizontal Profiled Ice Fishing Lures
Many horizontal profiled lures do an excellent job mimicking the natural posture of baitfish, which helps attract and trigger predator fish. There’s more to a horizontal lure than just its convincing baitfish shape, of course. Its movement, vibrations and colour — plus accent features, like holographic eyes — also play a role in fooling fish. Here are just a few horizontal profiled ice fishing lures worth having on hand.
- Jigging Rap Series
The Jigging Rap, WH Series Jigging Rap, Jigging Shad Rap, Jigging Shadow Rap and Snap Rap are perfect baitfish replicas. Fished on a lift-fall-hold jigging sequence, these lures swim up and off to the side, before gliding downward like a wounded baitfish.
- Rippin’ Rap Series
With a shad-inspired profile, the Rippin’ Rap and Ultra Light Rippin’ Rap are must-have ice fishing baits. Well known for their loud, distinctive BB rattles, the deep-belly profile is just as much of a reason why Rippin’ Raps consistently evoke a feeding response from a variety of fish species.
- Rap-V
A relatively new arrival, the Rap-V has quickly become a favourite among ice anglers. Part lipless crankbait, part bladebait, the rattling Rap-V is another deep-bodied lure well suited for walleye, lake trout and northern pike.
- Slab Rap
On a lift-drop jigging sequence, the Slab Rap produces subtle vibrations and a shimmying swim on rise, followed by an evasive side-to-side fall. The proverbial cherry on top is the Slab Rap’s weight-forward design, which makes it easy to impart a rocking action and make lookers turn into biters.
- Lil’ Foxee Jigging Minnow
Nose heavy with a slight humpback profile, the Lil’ Foxee Jigging Minnow mimics the feeding position and movements of a baitfish when worked on bottom. This makes it particularly effective for bottom-oriented whitefish, walleye and yellow perch.
- Panfish Jigs
The Tungsten Mongo Jig, Tubby Jig and Pug Bug horizontal panfish ice fishing jigs are made for pairing with live-bait and soft plastics. If you prefer pre-dressed jigs, the Tungsten Bullfly Jig, Tungsten Fly Jig, Tungsten Mustache Jig and Wax Tail Jig won’t disappoint. A 90-degree line tie design keeps the jig in a horizontal position and ensures optimal balance.
2. Vertical Profiled Ice Fishing Lures
Lures with a vertical profile are just as effective as horizontal baits at catching fish through the ice. From a fish’s perspective, jigging spoon and vertical jig movements, flash and vibrations closely resembles the erratic behaviour of a wounded minnow or other type of vulnerable prey. You’ll notice as well many baits have details to boost their appeal, such as realistic eyes and colours ranging from natural patterns to attention-getting glow finishes.
- High Action Spoons
When fished aggressively, Tingler and Tumbler spoons have a wild actions for attracting fish, appealing to aggressive feeders and triggering reaction strikes. Quivers and light hops produce more subtle moves for when fish need to be coaxed into biting.
- Slab Spoons
Beveled edges and a tapered design give Flash Champ and Cast Champ spoons their enticing fluttering action that fish can’t resist. Don’t get caught without these slab-style spoons in your collection.
- Bull Spoon
This compact, quick-sinking spoon is an ideal choice for getting into the strike zone fast. The Bull Spoon’s erratic, wounded baitfish action consistently triggers aggressive strikes, yet worked subtly it will also convince fish to chew.
- Rattle Spoons
A Rattle Spoon’s vibrations make it an ice fishing must-have. Its sonic output attracts fish as well as stimulate strikes.
The Flash Bang Jigging Spoon goes a step further. In addition to a loud rattle, it has an integrated glow stick for extra appeal.
- Tungsten Chandelier Jig
This jig is just the right size and profile for temping bites. The Tungsten Chandelier Jig’s conical head design delivers a strong sonar return, making it excellent for deep-water downsizing strategies for yellow perch, crappie, walleye and more.
- Waxy Jig
Raised body ridges give the Waxy Jig a life-like buggy appearance, replicating the natural insects and aquatic creatures preyed upon by predatory fish. The ridges distribute contrast and flash more readily for added appeal.
- Tear Drop Jig
Featuring an oversized holographic eye, the Tear Drop Jig is suitable for jigging as well as deadstick and tip-up tactics. Its wide profile and teardrop shape mimic fingerling baitfish and other aquatic food.
The next time you’re going through ice fishing tackle, check to see if you’re missing any of the essential ice fishing lures discussed above. You don’t need every lure referenced here, but having a good mix of horizontal and vertical profiled baits ensures you’re prepared for different scenarios and able to catch more fish throughout the hard-water season.